The forward is not expected to join Garry Monk's squad on the trip across the Atlantic as Napoli step up their pursuit

Swansea City will jet off on their pre-season tour of the US today without Spanish star Michu as the forward appears closer than ever to a Liberty Stadium exit.

Reports in Italy last night claimed Serie A giants Napoli are stepping up their bid to land the 26-year-old, with the Italians understood to be eyeing an initial loan deal with a view to a permanent move.

Swansea are thought to want to sell rather than loan the injury-troubled frontman, with the two clubs set to thrash out the details this week.

Michu has been missing from the start of pre-season testing and training in South Wales as speculation over his future intensified.

Michu was a revelation in his first season in the Premier League following a £2.5m switch from Rayo Vallecano in 2012 but he has become increasingly disillusioned with life at the Liberty after being plagued by knee and ankle problems last season.

Meanwhile, it remains unclear whether full-back Ben Davies will travel to the US, with Swansea adamant the Wales international will be part of the travelling squad unless Spurs meet their demands on a proposed £10m deal.

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